Friend of footballer killed in Shoreham Airshow crash pays tribute

Dan Cain

The friend of a talented footballer killed in yesterday’s horrific Shoreham Airshow accident has spoken of his shock.

Worthing United midfielder Jacob Schilt, 23, died when a 1950s Hawker Hunter aircraft crashed into traffic and pedestrians on the A27.

Brett Mendoza, vice-chairman of the Robert Eaton Memorial Fund – a charity formed following the death of a Brighton & Hove Albion fan killed in the 9/11 terror attacks – had known Jacob for five years, after he registered his interest in the charity.

Brett, 34, was working at the Grand Central Pub, in Surrey Street, Brighton, when news of Jacob’s death reached him.

He said: “It’s absolutely tragic. When you find out a mate’s dead it’s hard to take. It hasn’t really sunk in yet. I feel a bit numb.”

“He was probably the most technically gifted player we had in the squad. He was one of the shyer members of the squad but was still a good laugh a really friendly guy. No one could say a bad word against him.

“He was one of the best players I have played with, and I’m sad to see him go.”

Seagulls fan Jacob played in three of the annual Robert Eaton Memorial Fund charity matches against Crystal Palace fans and raised nearly £1,000.

Now in light of yesterday’s events, Brett said the charity would be doing something in memory of Jacob but first needed to consult with his friends.

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